Purpose

Establishes the Office of Achievement and Innovation within the Department of Education. The goal is to help school districts and charter schools research and implement innovative practices that boost student achievement in key areas.

Main Provisions

• Research and clearinghouse

  • The Office must research innovative practices and maintain a clearinghouse of ideas, information, and resources to support academic achievement.
  • It should help districts that want to adopt innovative practices to improve student outcomes.
  • All guidance from the Office is advisory and not binding on districts or charter schools.

• Nonprofit partnerships

  • The Office will act as a central point of contact for approved nonprofit organizations that have demonstrated effectiveness in improving student achievement.
  • To be approved, nonprofit organizations must submit:
  • Their most recent Form 990 or Form 990EZ filed with the IRS
  • A summary of the organization’s history in supporting student achievement
  • Evidence of good standing with the secretary of state (under chapter 317A or other applicable law)
  • Certification that none of the organization’s current principals have been convicted of a felony financial crime in the last ten years
  • The Office may revoke approval of a nonprofit at any time.

Changes to Existing Law

• Creation of a new statutory framework
  • Establishes the Office of Achievement and Innovation codified in Minnesota Statutes, specifically in chapter 127A (with new provisions added).
• Appropriations modification
  • Includes modifications to the equity, diversity, and inclusion appropriation (as referenced by Laws 2023, chapter 55, article 12, section 17, subdivision 2).

Administration and Oversight

• Advisory role
  • The Office’s guidance is advisory and not binding on school districts or charter schools.
• Accountability of nonprofits
  • Approved nonprofit organizations are subject to ongoing review, and approval can be withdrawn.

Significance

• Formalizes a dedicated office to scout and share innovative education practices.
• Creates a pathway for nonprofit organizations to partner with schools, based on demonstrated effectiveness and vetted qualifications.
• Connects innovative practices to core academic areas (literacy, reading, math, numeracy, science) and career readiness.

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Relevant Terms - Office of Achievement and Innovation - Department of Education - school districts - charter schools - innovative practices - academic achievement - literacy - reading comprehension - mathematics - numeracy - science - career readiness - clearinghouse - nonprofit organizations - Form 990 - Form 990EZ - secretary of state - chapter 317A - felony financial crime - advisory guidance - Minnesota Statutes chapter 127A - Laws 2023 chapter 55 article 12 section 17 subdivision 2 - appropriation - approval - revocation